frequently asked questions

Doula questions

  • A doula is a non-medical professional who provides physical and emotional support to birthing people during pregnancy, labour and the postpartum period.

    Doulas do not provide medical advice, but are there to support and advocate for the birthing person, working along healthcare professionals.

    Having a birth supporter have many benefits, like an all in all improved birth experience, with less interventions, and improved bonding with baby.

  • Whatever your circumstances may be, having a birth supporter who can provide one-to-one support for you can be helpful, whether it being emotional or physical.

    A doula can help you advocate for yourself in any birth scenario, providing a wealth of experience as well as a safe space for you and any birth partner.

  • As a full spectrum doula I can accompany you from any time in your journey; throughout your fertility journey, or at any time in your pregnancy.

    If you’re thinking about engaging me as a doula for your upcoming birth, I generally recommend working together from sometime around 30-32 weeks of pregnancy, however every pregnancy and every person have their own story and we all have different needs and wishes for support.

  • Being on call means that from the agreed date (usually around 38 weeks), I am fully available to respond when you go into labour. My phone is with me at all times, and I’ll come to support you promptly, providing continuous physical, emotional, and practical care throughout your labour until your baby is born.

    During this period, I manage my schedule to be ready while also ensuring I stay rested and alert, so you have my full attention when you need it most. Being on call ensures you have consistent support, reassurance, and advocacy from the moment your labour begins.

  • I am based in Walthamstow, East London, and cover births in Central/North/East London; if you’re outside this area, we can discuss travel and any associated arrangements

  • No. In the UK, the role of a doula is not a regulated profession, meaning there is no legal requirements for doulas to hold specific qualifications or be registered with a professional body. Being a doula also does not mean you are medically trained.

Financial questions

  • For birth doula support – I require 50% of the total fee on booking and the remaining balance of fee at 38 weeks when I go ‘on call’ for birth. 

    For postnatal doula support – I require 50% on booking and the balance on commencement of the support.

  • For birth support the fee (or part of the fee where services are combined) will be reimbursed should unforeseen circumstances on the part of the doula prevent me (or my named back up if it is the case) from being present at the birth in the time period inclusive of the “on call” dates. If the doula is not given sufficient notice to attend, the fee remains payable in full but 2 compensatory postnatal visits (3 hours each) will be offered.  

    For postnatal support bookings I require 7 full days’ notice for cancellations/amendments, after which, no refund will be given. 

    All refunds will be given via bank transfer.  

  • Any fees are to be paid by bank transfer.

    If you feel like you need my services, but do not have the means, please let me know and we can work something out. I can do payment plans and sliding scale accessibility.

Birth Kit & Comfort Tools

  • As part of your birth support, I bring a birth kit designed to help you feel comfortable, supported, and empowered during labour. It includes:

    • Birth Sling – designed to support upright and active positions during labor, helping you move freely and comfortably while using gravity to your advantage

    • Rebozo – good for rocking, stretching, and counter-pressure.

    • TENS Machine

    • Acupressure Balls & Comfort Tools – including combs and other tactile supports.

    • Aromatherapy Oils

    • Lights – tea lights and fairy lights to create a calm, soothing atmosphere.

    We’ll go through together how to use each tool during our prep sessions, so you feel confident and know what works best for you on the day.